When tests revealed Smyrna had a type of cancerous brain tumor called medulloblastoma, her family was stunned.

Smyrna is an outgoing, social teen with many interests and a never-slow-down attitude. She loves to cook and entertain for family and friends, create art, play piano and sing. Not even undergoing treatment for cancer has slowed her down. In mid-2018, Smyrna began to experience headaches and nausea once a week; then nearly every day. When tests revealed Smyrna had a type of cancerous brain tumorcalled medulloblastoma, her family was stunned. “It’s impossible to digest this kind of news,” said her mom, Akhila. At St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, Smyrna’s treatment will include radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food—because all a family should worry about is helping their child live. “At St. Jude, I don’t have to worry about anything, only Smyrna,” Akhila said. “We have a place to stay and families we’ve become friends with. We miss home, but we’re grateful and thankful for St. Jude.”